Sethna’s Scouting Society, 18^th West Mumbai Scout Group, celebrated multiple milestones at Mumbai’s Allbless Baug, on 26^th January, 2024, with its Cub Pack completing 100 years, its Scout Troop hitting 110 years and its Sea-Scout Troop completing 62 years.

The function was presided by Chief Guest – Dinshaw Tamboly – Chiarman, WZO Trust Funds, alongside Guests of Honour – Dr. Cyrus Wadia and Scouter Pervez Irani. They were greatly impressed by a brilliant display of various pioneering gadgets (including a bridge, raft, flag pole, and more) built by the scouts, with the help of Scouters and Rovers.

The function commenced with Group Leader Scout – Capt. Lavji Mistry welcoming the gathering and introducing the guests. Scouter Cyrus Khambata compared the function, which included inspiring speeches by the dignitaries greatly motivated the young boys. The guests and invitees were felicitated, alongside past and present Cub Masters for their selfless service to the Cub Pack over the years.

‘Mowgli’s Jungle’ themed dance performances by cubs and scouts was followed by a much appreciated presentation commemorating 100 years of Cub Pack, portraying its brief pictorial history (To view: https://youtu.be/3ilqflmPrJc?si=0Oor-OxSqabVC2br ). The function concluded with dinner.

The Scout Troop was established by Scouter Rustomji E. Sethna in 1914, while the Cub Pack was started in 1923, followed by the Sea-scouts, in 1962, under the leadership of Scouter Soli R. Daroona.

The 18^th West Mumbai Scout Group is the State’s and the nation’s oldest running Scout Group in continuous existence. The Sea Scout Troop is the only active Sea Scout Troop in Mumbai. Every year, the group conducts 2 camps (May and December) during the vacations, and also organizes hikes, picnics, outdoor activities like treasure hunts, cycling, sailing, etc.

The group meets twice weekly on Saturdays (4:30 pm – 6:30 pm) and Sundays (7:45 am – 10:30 am), at C J Colony Recreation Centre grounds (Tardeo). Boys between 6 and 17 years of age can enrol to hone skills including leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, while getting fitter and enjoying fellowship. Interested parents could contact Scout Masters at C J Colony Recreation Centre, Tardeo, on the above-mentioned days and timings.